If you're going to Sonoma and want to try some HP+ pads, there's a CA member selling a new set in the classifieds. I'm sure you could get them delivered for less than $90 which is a good bargain.

 

that's pretty solid - a new set is like $110 or $115 on amazon.

 

Hey All, I'm Damien and I'm new on the RX-8 boards, but not new to racetracks. I'm located in SF and my usual tracks are Laguna Seca, Sonoma, and Thunderhill.

My 2006 base model has stock rotors (unknown brand) and stock calipers. I use Motul RBF600, SS lines, and front cooling ducts. I found the Hawk HP+ faded at Laguna (on street tires even) until I installed the cooling ducts. With cooling ducts up front and Nitto NT01s they are now solid and fade free. And totally agree that the HP+ pads don't care about used or new rotors, bedding in, etc.

To the OP, I don't think Hawk HPS or EBC pads belong on a track at all, except maybe the first day for a complete beginner. Although I did run a combination of HPS rear, HP+ front for awhile and they seemed to survive ok.

All that said, I was at Laguna this week with Hawk HT-10s all around. They feel a lot like the HP+s but even more bite - I loved them! They definitely require more finesse on the release if you are trying to trail-brake: I got a lot more rotation than I was bargaining for a few times. But overall it was very comforting throwing out the anchor for Turn 2 (hairpin at the end of the front straight).

 

Welcome, Damien. Post vids.

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I've ran Hawk HP+ front and HPS on the rear while running some no name slotted and drilled that were on the vehicle when I bought it in 2009, wish I knew the brand of the rotors because they show very little wear, no cracking/rust for the five years of autox and daily driving... I'm going to go with stoptech bbk this year just because I got such a good deal on one. Currently searching for pads that will work with that kit that will have the same if not better bite/life as the hawk HP+. Anyone have any ideas?